Rectal Bleeding
Rectal bleeding is when blood passes out of the anus. People with rectal bleeding may notice bright red blood in their underwear or in the toilet after having a bowel movement. They may also have stools that are dark red or black.
Rectal bleeding is usually a sign that something is wrong. Many things can cause rectal bleeding, including:
Hemorrhoids. These are blood vessels in the anus or rectum that are larger than normal.
Fistulas. These are abnormal channels in the rectum and anus.
Anal fissures. This is a tear in the anus.
Diverticulosis. This is a condition in which pockets or sacs project from the bowel.
Proctitis and colitis. These are conditions in which the rectum, colon, or anus become inflamed.
Rectal bleeding is when blood passes out of the anus. People with rectal bleeding may notice bright red blood in their underwear or in the toilet after having a bowel movement. They may also have stools that are dark red or black.
Rectal bleeding is usually a sign that something is wrong. Many things can cause rectal bleeding, including:
Hemorrhoids. These are blood vessels in the anus or rectum that are larger than normal.
Fistulas. These are abnormal channels in the rectum and anus.
Anal fissures. This is a tear in the anus.
Diverticulosis. This is a condition in which pockets or sacs project from the bowel.
Proctitis and colitis. These are conditions in which the rectum, colon, or anus become inflamed.